NISM is a public trust, established by the Securities & Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the regulator for securities markets in India. NISM seeks to add to market quality through educational initiatives. It is an autonomous body governed by its Board of Governors.

NISM envisions a catalytic role in developing the securities markets research and education through:

Close interface with policy makers & regulators.

Continuous knowledge creation and dissemination.

Enabling stakeholders to enhance knowledge, skills and awareness through research based inputs.

Serving as a role model for other institutions in and outside India to enhance the quality of interaction in securities markets.